The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has dismissed the widespread belief that the rainy season eliminates the risk of domestic fire outbreaks, warning that households remain vulnerable despite the wet weather conditions.
The Service says the misconception has led to complacency among some residents, resulting in unsafe electrical practices, poor cooking habits, and negligence in basic fire safety measures.
The public education campaign was led by ADO I Afua Pongo, the Sekondi Metro Deputy Regional Public Relations Officer of the GNFS, who cautioned that rainfall does not prevent indoor fire hazards.
“The fact that it is raining does not mean homes are safe from fire outbreaks. Many fire incidents are caused by human activities and electrical faults, which can still occur in any season,” ADO I Afua Pongo said.
She explained that although bushfires may reduce during the rainy season, domestic fire risks often remain unchanged or may even increase due to the increased use of electrical appliances during unstable power supply periods.
“We still record house fires during the rainy season because people become less careful. Appliances are overloaded, gas cylinders are not properly maintained, and electrical faults are ignored,” she added.
The GNFS urged households to regularly inspect wiring systems, avoid overloading sockets, and ensure proper handling of gas cylinders and cooking equipment.
It also advised the public to keep fire extinguishers where possible and ensure emergency contacts are easily accessible in case of fire outbreaks.
The Service said the campaign forms part of its continuous fire prevention education aimed at reducing avoidable fire incidents across the country.
